The Borno State House of Assembly has vowed to criminalise the unauthorised sale and diversion of food assistance meant for undernourished children, following grave concerns raised by UNICEF regarding the misuse of aid.
This declaration came during a Friday meeting between the Assembly’s Health Committee and representatives from UNICEF, where both parties explored avenues for cooperation on the N-774 initiative, a federal program designed to address malnutrition at the grassroots level.
Maina Mustapha, the Committee’s Chairman, criticised the exploitation of donor-supplied nutrition products, asserting that those who profit from such aid are putting vulnerable children’s lives at risk.
He emphasised the Assembly’s resolve to implement firm legal measures to curb such practices.
Mustapha stated, “We must put an end to the act of selling or diverting food intended to save children’s lives. It’s unfortunate that people take what is meant for the needy and convert it for selfish use.”
He reiterated the House’s commitment to supporting UNICEF in the implementation of the N-774 scheme across the state, ensuring effective planning and delivery.
Responding to the legislature’s stance, Joseph Senesie, head of UNICEF’s Maiduguri Field Office, applauded the move, noting that political will is critical for driving impactful nutritional programs.
Senesie highlighted that the N-774 initiative, led nationally by the Vice President, will extend support to all of Nigeria’s 774 LGAs.
In Borno, it will be adapted as “N-27” to serve all 27 local government areas, with a focus on setting up dedicated committees to ensure local-level implementation.
He praised the Assembly’s proactive decision to enforce accountability in the distribution of aid, describing it as a significant step toward protecting vulnerable children.
This intervention follows a recent UNICEF alert regarding the illegal resale of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) intended for over 500,000 severely malnourished children in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
